Parent Charged with Murder in Urgent KSU Shooting Incident

UPDATE: A parent has been charged with murder following a tragic shooting at Kentucky State University on December 9, 2025. Jacob Lee Bard, 48, from Evansville, Indiana, is accused of opening fire on campus, resulting in the death of 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr. and critically injuring another student.

The incident unfolded at approximately 3:10 p.m. in the Young Hall area, triggering an immediate lockdown of the campus. Bard was apprehended by KSU Campus Police shortly after the shooting. He has been charged with murder and first-degree assault and pleaded not guilty during his court appearance on December 11. The court has set a $1 million cash bond for his release at the Franklin County Regional Jail.

Authorities confirmed that the shooting stemmed from an altercation, but the motive remains unclear. The Frankfort Police Department assures the public that this was an isolated incident, and there are currently no ongoing safety concerns on campus. All classes and activities at KSU have been canceled for the remainder of the week as a precaution.

The family of Fox expressed their heartbreak over his untimely death. His mother, April Terrance, shared her devastation, stating that no parent expects such violence when sending their children to college. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses, successfully raising over $2,200 of its $3,500 goal.

As investigations continue, police are reviewing footage of the altercation, which has surfaced online and confirmed as part of their inquiry. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office is also involved in the ongoing investigation of this tragic event.

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the KSU community, raising urgent discussions about campus safety and the impact of such violence on students and families. As more details emerge, the community remains in mourning for the loss of a young life and the critical condition of another student.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.